Etchells Youth Academy 2023 Trials

Published 12:02 on 24 Apr 2023

The clocks may have just gone forward but the lashing rain and winds gusting 50 knots in The Solent made even getting to Cowes challenging. However, members of this year Etchells Youth Academy, their coaches and the team of volunteer race officers were undaunted. It was selection weekend and whilst it was cold and wet the wind had dropped by Saturday morning and the planned series of four windward leeward races just off Bramble Bank went ahead.

The starts were tactical, although there was a controversial first start, and racing at close quarters. By the end of day one Pulse, Ziggy, Jolly Roger and Shamel were all doing well and looked to be the boats to beat. With a further four races planned the following day all was still to play for.

By Sunday, the wind had veered round to the north and the PRO set excellent courses. The battle on the water was just as keen as ever yet remarkably there were no calls for an X flag and no protests throughout the weekend. Every point counted and discards came into play in reaching the final results.

At the prize giving the three teams selected were Shamal, Ziggy and Purse. We look forward to following their progress through the coming, season. We will also watch with interest how other members of this year's academy use the valuable coaching and experience they have gained to secure places in other boats in the Etchell fleet.

If the enthusiasm and determination shown by this year members of the EYA are anything to go by the future of British keelboat sailing looks extremely bright.

April 2023

Last updated 12:43 on 5 November 2024